What Happens to Ants in Winter in New Jersey?

What Exactly Happens to Ants When the Weather Gets Cold?
What Exactly Happens to Ants When the Weather Gets Cold?

Ants are typically a big problem when it’s warm out, but where do they go when it gets cold? While it’s unlikely that you’ll see ants in your home during winter, it’s still a good idea to know what they’re up to when they get cold. Our Monmouth County pest control experts offer the following information about ants in winter.

Underground Ants

Ants that build colonies in the ground have a considerable amount of protection when freezing temperatures hit NJ. These ants usually have tunnels that reach deep into the ground where no freezing occurs. When the temperatures drop, these ants can head to these deeper areas and stay warm enough to survive.

Wood Ants

Ants that live inside trees and other wood sources have a harder time avoiding freezing temperatures. However, they’re able to enter a state called diapause. During this state, ants go into a sleep or hibernation-like state where they don’t grow or move around. They’re able to go into this state when it gets too cold and stay dormant until the temperatures start to heat up again. Keep in mind that ants that are nesting inside your home have no problem surviving the winter months.

If you have ants in your home this fall or winter, Allison Pest Control can help. Our Monmouth County pest control technicians can safely get rid of ant infestations in your home.